Health Care

Nurses are asking Watsonville Community Hospital to keep obstetric services open. And, the Little Hoover Commission is looking into the California housing shortage.

A Kelvin wave has pushed local sea levels unusually high recently. And, with respiratory virus season upon the Central Coast, Santa Cruz County is telling people to mask up to protect the most vulnerable.

Produce growers in the region face reduced demand as people try to avoid cyclosporiasis, and Santa Cruz County releases its annual point-in-time count.

The Salinas City Council has voted unanimously to extend a moratorium on issuing new tobacco retailer licenses. And, 5,000 California nurses have signed a petition against layoffs.

Residents want the Gilroy City Council to make data center development harder. And, health officials say the cyclospora outbreak shouldn’t discourage people from eating fresh fruits and vegetables.

This summer, 27 local students participated a five week program designed to give them a genuine look at what it takes to work in healthcare.

The city of Santa Cruz has posted yellow development notices along parts of West Cliff Drive. And, speculation about the nationwide outbreak of a food-born illness making people sick could impact Monterey Bay agriculture.

Blood banks are facing a shortage of type O, with supplies dropping to a two-year low. And, Republican lawmakers say a new tax hike on private health insurers will drive up costs for Californians.

The Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury makes housing recommendations, a new mural celebrates community in Seaside, employees protest at Dominican Hospital, and more.

Salinas is temporarily putting the brakes on new tobacco retailers while city leaders consider stricter rules to prevent children from accessing tobacco products. And, the Fourth of July holiday weekend begins tomorrow for many, and communities throughout the region are planning events.